Question

Which one of the following atoms often limit the primary productivity of an ecosystem?

• A. Carbon
• B. Nitrogen
• C. Phosphorus
• D. Sulphur

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Carbon

Carbon is the element which limits the productivity of ecosystem. Carbon dioxide is the gas which is absorbed by plants for the process of photosynthesis. As a result of photosynthesis, CO${}_2$ is converted into glucose, which is the energy produced for the plants as well as the heterotrophs which depend on autotrophic plants. The availability of carbon element determines the rate of photosynthesis, which is an important process in the release of oxygen, being used by other organisms surviving on earth.